The National Council encourages every member to participate in inspiring a vision for community-based behavioral healthcare for the 21st century among our national leaders. It is our job — as providers and advocates — to lead — to participate in shaping national policies related to our enterprise and the people, families and communities that we serve. If we don’t, who will?

As leaders we must remember two things

• The key to leadership is the effective communication of a story — the story of our tremendous successes and of tremendous unmet needs.
• Nobody gives us power, we just take it — we must get to know our leaders and representatives and we must inform and educate them on subjects where we have standing, expertise and something to contribute.

The National Council’s Policy Action Pledge (PDF) outlines 7 easy ways for you to get involved and play a leadership role in shaping public policy

• Personally talk with your two U.S. senators and member of Congress.
• Invite your senators and congressperson to visit your organization—download the National Council's tips and guidelines for arranging Congressional visits (PDF)
• Meet the chief of staff, legislative director, district director, and legislative assistant responsible for mental health and addictions treatment for your two U.S. senators and member of Congress.
• Maintain contact with appropriate staff of your two U.S. senators and member of Congress throughout the year.
• Volunteer for at least one campaign and contribute to the campaigns of at least one of these officials of your choosing during this year.
• Participate in the National Council’s Annual Hill Day along with one or more board members of your
• Attend the special executive development sessions on participating in the public policy process at the Annual National Council Conference.